University Star

It is clear, beautiful and full to the brim with thriving wildlife. It is San Marcos’ very own Spring Lake, and it is one of the most outstanding and historical parts of this wonderful city.

One of the oldest continually inhabited sites in North America, according to the Edwards Aquifer website, it is a contender for the honor of becoming a World Heritage Site. Spring Lake is a part of every Bobcat’s life from the first glass bottom boat tour to the final float on the river during college. It is a staple of San Marcos heritage and a wonderful way for this beautiful city to get some well-deserved recognition.

Think back to some of your first memories at Texas State and San Marcos. You probably went to Sewell Park several times and spent time on top of Bikini Hill, as well as the little waterfall by Saltgrass. That potential water slide is one of two major spillways from Spring Lake itself. Spring Lake has not only provided for our floating and drinking habits, but is a historical part of both the university and city. For instance, Aquarena Center on Spring Lake was once a tourist attraction with an underwater theater.

Texas State could gain acknowledgment if Spring Lake joins the ranks of the many World Heritage Sites around the world. It would do the university an even greater good to be associated with an area considered to be an exceptional natural landmark, after being titled an Emerging Research Institution. With these two titles combined, that negative “party school” name Texas State is often associated with could give way to more positive thoughts. We would no doubt gain more of the respect we deserve as a university.

Despite the apprehension from San Marcos residents due to the possibility of increasing visitors to the city, Spring Lake’s recognition would only help our city grow. In these difficult economic times, bringing in travelers who are interested in Spring Lake could help boost local businesses and bring in more revenue to San Marcos. It would be wonderful to see the Square and smaller shops along the way thrive due to the rippling effects of this prestigious award.

I can only foresee great things from the possibility of Spring Lake becoming one of the newest World Heritage Sites. As the lengthy process of application, nomination and designation of this respected title continues on, residents of San Marcos and Texas State students should be supportive and excited. It is possible one day we might all be able to say we have experienced such a wonder of our world’s amazing heritage firsthand.